Processum - Biorefinery Development for a Fossil-free Future

Processum is an international research- and innovation partner in biorefinery. In their unique research environment, Processum can test new ideas and products all the way from laboratory to demo scale. The aim is to develop methods for converting all kinds of biomass into useful materials such as proteins and chemicals and into bioenergy to replace fossil based raw materials. The biorefinery demonstration plant in Örnsköldsvik is an innovative, internationally recognised centre for biorefinery research and development that aims to find new and better ways to use residual streams with fossil free origin. Through new and developing techniques, it is possible to convert these into everything from chemicals and fuel to carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes and lignin.

<h2> Using a wide range of raw materials and waste </h2>
The equipment at Processum includes pilot facilities for thermochemical pre-treatment, biochemical processes and thermochemical synthesis, as well as pilot processes for separation, in a custom-built system of chemical reactors. The equipment enables the conversion, on a pilot scale, of a broad spectrum of biomass, such as forest raw materials of all kinds, industrial residual streams and waste materials, into materials, proteins, bioenergy and chemicals.

<h2> From lab to demonstration scale </h2>
Processum’s industry simulation environment allows projects to be monitored from laboratory scale to demonstration scale, making the plant a unique and internationally renowned site for biorefinery development for forest raw materials. In addition to the comprehensive array of pilot process equipment, there is a large demonstration plant for biorefinery trial runs.

<h2> Nanocellulose pilot projects </h2>
Crystalline nanocellulose has several interesting properties and can be used as a building material, biocomposite, colour additive and much more. Umeå University and Processum are also working together on production methods for bacterial nanocellulose from residual streams from pulp mills. Nanocellulose in different forms can provide new and improved qualities for many different materials, such as stronger cardboard, textiles and plastic. It can also be used to create completely new bio-based materials.

<h2> A cluster for recycling research </h2>
Together with other biorefinery initiatives, the Processum cluster is a key hub for developing new products, processes and energy solutions based on forest raw materials and process industry residuals, with national and international partners from industry and academia. The research environment at Processum allows customers and partners to scale up their research, fractionate biomass or produce larger amounts of intermediates or products needed for development and market launch. Processum is open to all organisations that want to collaborate to develop applications within sustainability, reuse and recycling, and solutions that generate environmental as well as economic benefits.